AIR TRANSPORT AND THE ENVIRONMENT

This paper suggests ways in which the problem of conflict between the environment and the economy may be approached. Emphasis is placed on the need to safeguard the economic stability of the airlines in the interest of providing a public service. The paper traces the development of air transportation in an effort to examine the relationship between the economy and the environment. The pattern of future development is hen considered, as well as the question: who are the public? The London area with its impressive industry growth is examined, and it is pointed out how underestimation of traffic growth could lead to saturation at Gatwick airport well in advance of current planning. The importance of price as a factor which controls growth is discussed, and arguments for environmental protection are considered. the trend towards quieter aircraft is reviewed, and a tabls is used to compare noise from different types of aircraft. It is pointed out that siting of airports in their relationship to existing and projected areas of population is important. The responsibility of planners is discussed, and some solutions (e.g. sterilisation of land immediately below take-off/approach paths to preclude domestic habitation) to airport development problems are noted. Comments are made on the cost of retrofitting existing plans with quieter engines and on the repercussion of uncordinated measures.